§ 76. Major CARVERasked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware of the quantity of French wheat now being imported and offered for sale here; and if he can state the approximate delivered price of such wheat and also the current price per quarter of English wheat?
§ Dr. ADDISONAs the reply contains a number of figures, I propose, to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
Mr. GUINNESSCan the right hon. Gentleman tell us what proportion of the total imports of soft wheat are represented by these French exports?
§ Dr. ADDISONI will gladly do so, but I require notice of the question.
§ Mr. SMITHERSWhat is the value of this 3 per cent. of French wheat in pounds sterling?
§ Dr. ADDISONThere, again, I require notice, and, if the hon. Member will put down a question, I will gladly answer it.
§ Following is the reply:
§ My right hon. Friend is aware that imports of wheat from France into the United Kingdom during the current year have been large compared with imports from that country in previous years. 2042 They have, however, represented only a little more than 3 per cent. of the total imports during that period.
§ The average ex-ship price for fair quality French wheat is about 32s. 6d. per quarter of 480 lbs. with best lots making a few shillings more. Landing charges would increase the ex-ship price by from 1s. to 1s. 6d. per quarter.
§ The latest available Gazette price of English wheat which relates to sales during the week ending 3rd May last was 38s. 3d per quarter of 480 lbs.